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The capital city and largest Spanish municipality, located on the Manzanares River right in the very heart of the country, Madrid is the outstanding political, economic and cultural center of Spain. It is the residence of the Spanish monarch and two world-famous soccer clubs: Real Madrid and Atletico de Madrid.
Along with a modern infrastructure, the city has one of the most important historic centers of all the great European cities. Madrid managed to preserve many of its historic neighborhoods and streets and has many jewels of 16th and 17th-century architecture.
Begin your acquaintance with the city with a stroll down the magical historic center, called the Madrid de Los Austrias, and traverse the spectacular Plaza Mayor Square which is one of the most visited places in Spain.
The "aristocratic center" of Madrid is located nearby with the 17th century the Royal Palace and the Plaza de Oriente Square being its main gems which undoubtedly should be must-visit sights in your Spain trip planner.
The stunning Royal Palace is the official home of Spain's royalty, and the enormous Baroque complex actually offers visitors inside entrances to check out some of the rooms, including the throne room.
There's so much to explore in Madrid. Take a look at the list below and get inspired to plan your journey, or explore even more with our Madrid and Barcelona vacation packages to experience the best of both iconic cities.